Peel board declares June 13 as Toonie Tuesday to send support for famine crisis in Africa

​The Peel District School Board is encouraging its staff, students and parents to lend a helping hand on June 13 to those affected by famine in parts of Africa. All funds raised during Toonie Tuesday will be donated to UNICEF Canada to send urgent support to all families and children affected by famine and sickness.

“When something happens in another part of the world, we are always ready to do our part in helping others,” says Tony Pontes, director of education at the Peel board. “It is important to emphasize global citizenship to our students and help those in need. We know that we are part of such a giving community and are confident that our campaign will be successful.”

The Government of Canada’s Famine Relief Fund will match the amount of donations made by individual Canadians, meaning the generosity of Canadians will have twice the life-saving impact. Donations of $25 or more will be eligible for a tax receipt. Staff, students and families can choose to donate at Peel board schools and locations on June. 13, or make an online donation anytime on our unicef page​.

UNICEF Canada is already on the ground in parts of Nigeria, South Sudan, Somalia and Yemen providing relief to more than 1.4 million people. Donations will go towards live-saving treatment from dehydration to malnutrition.

The Peel board serves more than 153,000 students in 253 schools across Brampton, Caledon and Mississauga and is the largest employer in Peel Region. For more information about the Peel board please visit www.peelschools.org.